Safari Jeep Tour In Udawalawa Park Sri Lanka

Udawalawe , Sri Lanka

Safari Jeep Tour In Udawalawa Park Sri Lanka

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About this experience

Udawalawe National Park one of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular wildlife reserves, where untamed nature thrives. Located on the border of the wet and dry zones of the island, Udawalawe is a paradise for wildlife lovers, offering a safari adventure unlike any other.
Up-Close Elephant Encounters – Home to over 500 wild elephants, Udawalawe is one of the best places in the world to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Watch them roam freely, bathe in waterholes, and interact in herds.
A Birdwatcher’s Dream – With over 200 bird species, including rare raptors and vibrant kingfishers, Udawalawe is a haven for bird enthusiasts.
Diverse Wildlife – Spot elusive leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, jackals, and the park’s famous spotted deer among the golden grasslands and lush forest patches.
Breathtaking Landscapes – From wide-open plains to serene reservoirs, every turn in Udawalawe offers a picture-perfect view of the Sri Lankan wilderness.

Available options

Safari Tour In Udawalawa Sri Lanka

Pickup included

Safari Tour & Entrance Tickets

Safari Tour & Entrance Tickets<br/>Pickup included

What's included

water bottle

Pick Up and Drop off (only udawalawa area)

Jeep transport

Udawalawe national park Jeep safari

4x4 Safari Jeep

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Udawalawe is famous for its large elephant population, with hundreds of wild elephants roaming freely.
You can see herds, lone bulls, and baby elephants, often very close to safari jeeps.
The best time to spot them is early morning or late afternoon.

Great for spotting elephants drinking, bathing, and even play-fighting.

Located just outside the park, this center rehabilitates orphaned elephants and releases them back into the wild.
The best time to visit is during the feeding sessions (usually 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 6:00 PM).

Though leopards are not as common as in Yala National Park, Udawalawe does have a small leopard population.
If lucky, you may also spot fishing cats and jungle cats.

Udawalawe has plenty of water buffalo, often seen wallowing in mud or grazing.
Sambar deer and spotted deer are also commonly seen near the open plains.

Udawalawe National Park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wildlife, especially elephants, in their natural habitat

What's not included

Food and Drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Dear client,

please be advised if your within Udawala area you will be picked up and dropped off free of charge,

But please note that you have to pay the Entrance Tickets cost at the entrance Which is not included here in your Jeep Safari tour

About Udawalawe

Udawalawe is a small town in southern Sri Lanka known for its proximity to the Udawalawe National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly those interested in elephants. The town serves as a gateway to one of the country's most important wildlife conservation areas, offering a unique blend of nature and adventure.

Top Attractions

Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is one of Sri Lanka's most important wildlife sanctuaries, famous for its large population of Asian elephants. The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including safaris and guided tours.

Nature Half-day to full-day Approx. 5,000 LKR ($25 USD) for a safari

Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home

The Elephant Transit Home is a rescue and rehabilitation center for orphaned and injured elephants. Visitors can observe elephants being cared for and, if lucky, see them being released back into the wild.

Nature 1-2 hours Approx. 500 LKR ($2.50 USD) for entry

Udawalawe Reservoir

The Udawalawe Reservoir is a large artificial lake that provides water to the national park and surrounding areas. It is a popular spot for birdwatching and scenic views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Dambana Viharaya

Dambana Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple located near Udawalawe. The temple is known for its historical significance and beautiful architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetables, meat, and fish. Often accompanied by sambols and other side dishes.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg cooked in the center. Can be sweet or savory.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian (check for egg)

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and spices. Often served with a side of sambol.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Fish Ambul Thiyal

A sour fish curry made with a blend of spices and goraka (a sour fruit). Often served with rice or bread.

Lunch/Dinner Non-vegetarian (fish)

Popular Activities

Wildlife safaris Hiking Birdwatching Beach relaxation Scenic drives Nature walks Temple visits Local markets

Best Time to Visit

January to September (dry season)

The dry season is the best time to visit Udawalawe for wildlife viewing, especially elephants. The weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for safaris and outdoor activities. This is the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors and higher prices.

25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) 77°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Udawalawe is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious of your surroundings and take standard precautions to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices in advance.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

Getting there

By air

Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles) southeast of Udawalawe
Bandaranaike International Airport • 160 km (99.4 miles) southwest of Udawalawe

By train

Udawalawe Station

By bus

Udawalawe Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded and slow due to frequent stops.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe (local ride-hailing app)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Udawalawe Town Near Udawalawe National Park

Day trips

Tangalle

60 km (37.3 miles) • Full day

Tangalle is a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for those looking to combine wildlife viewing with beach relaxation.

Ella

100 km (62.1 miles) • Full day or overnight

Ella is a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, scenic views, and hiking trails. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a cooler climate.

Kataragama

50 km (31 miles) • Half day

Kataragama is a sacred city known for its religious significance and the annual Esala Perahera festival. It's home to several important temples and shrines.